Donald J. Gornowich, age 93, of Grand Rapids, MN, passed away at Grand Itasca Hospital on Wednesday, 28 August 2024.

Donald was born April 18, 1931, the son of Louis and Suzanne (Shoults) Gornowich. He served in the United States Navy aboard the USS Collett (DD-730) from 1949-1952. Following his discharge he returned to the Grand Forks, ND area to attend the University of North Dakota and met his beloved Phyllis E. Berg at a street dance in Minto, ND. They were later married on January 28, 1955.

Donald continued his post-graduate education at Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan and doctorate at the University of North Dakota. Donald was passionate about improving public schools and served as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, and assistant superintendent. He attained his dream job as superintendent of schools in Ogilvie, MN in the early 1980s and stayed until retirement.

Donald and Phyllis loved their cabin time on Lake Pokegama, GR, MN so much they retired there in 1993. Donald remained very active by traveling, vegetable gardening, and frequenting the Y daily.

He is survived by his daughters, Sue (Randy) Henriksen, Terri; grandchild, Bergen (Anna); great-grandchild, Laila; and many extended family members. He was preceded in death by his wife, Phyllis; his parents; three brothers, Raymond, Clarion, Chester; and sister, Beatrice.

Donald's wishes will be honored at Zion Lutheran Church Columbarium at a later date, when both his and Phyllis's ashes are interred.

Memorial donations of time, kindness, items, money are preferred to any organization in need to continue Don and Phil's generous gifting legacy.